very light and fast. Like the feel better than the stumpjumper, easier to throw around. Always amazed how much faster and farther I go on this than my FS AM bike. A joy to ride. Very short head tube makes picking up used forks easy.

4 chillies for value, I got a great deal on mine, But i think they were a bit over priced new

This bike is great at everything and Awsome in the climbs. I was at a race this last weekend and what a confidence booster it is to be able to pass on the climbs.Climbing has never been a strength of mine but I have improved a great deal in the last 6 months.

Weaknesses: The frame had bent at the top and down tube junction of the steer tube

Bottom Line:

The bottom line is sometimes the lightest and one of the most expensive frames is not the best. The frame could not stand up to being ridden hard 4 to 5 times a week at a average of 22 miles a day on and off road. I dealt directly with the owner of the company who would not honor the warranty on the frame. He also held my frame for approximately 1 year until I went through the Better Business Bureau and the Attorney General Office before he would return the frame to me.

Weaknesses: May want to look at a full suspension model for intense downhill with heavy rock and rut content.

Bottom Line:

I wanted to custom tailor a mountain bike that would last. I'm very happy with the climbing and single track execution. This may not be the bike you'd want for hardcore downhill (rocky) technical riding. But for 90% of my riding needs this bike is perfect.

Shoot me an email if you have any further questions. johnharper@cox.net